Corvette Racing to premiere new, wider C6.R for the 12 Hours of Sebring

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The biggest difference in the race car is two additional inches in width, up to 80.6 inches. It also has a higher rear wing and a more aerodynamically aggressive front fascia.

“The two-inch-wider track required all-new bodywork and revised suspension components,” Gary Pratt, Corvette Racing team manager, said in a statement. “The updated Corvette C6.R has to go through the homologation process again, so we had an opportunity to make additional refinements within the parameters of the GT regulations.”

The team used computer-aided aerodynamic analysis, among other techniques, at the Pratt & Miller Engineering facilities where the race cars are built in suburban Detroit.

“A key objective was to minimize drag as much as possible with the wider body while maximizing the downforce potential that it provides,” Corvette Racing engineering director Doug Louth said in a statement.

In addition to the technical updates, a revised driver lineup also will debut at the season-opening endurance race. The No. 3 Corvette has veteran racer Jan Magnussen and Antonio Garcia, with 20-year-old college student Jordan Taylor making his Corvette Racing debut.

There are 63 entries for the Sebring race, and Corvette drivers predict increased challenges because of the large field.

“It's going to be a really challenging event,” Gavin said in a press release. “My expectations are there will be a huge traffic and difficult situations with drivers who haven't raced at Sebring before.”

“Sixty-three cars will be tough for everyone,” said Milner. “Among all of the endurance races, Sebring is one of the most difficult driving into the night.”

The race starts at 10:30 a.m. Eastern on March 17, with live video on espn3.com. ABC will televise highlights from the race at noon Eastern on March 18.